Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify?

Not always. While many programs require first-time buyer status (meaning you have not owned a home in the past 3 years), some programs like SETH are available to repeat buyers. Veterans often qualify regardless of previous ownership.

What income limits apply to DPA programs?

Income limits vary by program and household size. Generally, you need to earn below 80-115% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For Harris County in 2026, this can range from $62,500 to $128,000+ depending on household size and program.

Can I combine DPA with FHA, VA, or conventional loans?

Yes! Most DPA programs are designed to work alongside FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. Daisy can help you find the best combination for your situation.

Do I have to pay back the down payment assistance?

It depends on the program. Some DPA is a true grant (never repaid). Others are forgivable loans that are forgiven after 3-10 years if you stay in the home. Some are deferred loans repaid when you sell or refinance.

How long does the DPA process take?

When working with an experienced loan officer, adding DPA to your loan typically adds only a few days to the closing timeline. Most DPA loans close in 30-45 days total.

What can DPA funds be used for?

Down payment assistance can typically be used for your down payment, closing costs, and sometimes even prepaid items like homeowners insurance and property taxes.

How do I know which DPA program I qualify for?

The best way to find out is to talk to Daisy. She will review your income, household size, purchase area, and loan type to identify all the programs you may qualify for — often revealing options you did not know existed.

Down Payment Assistance Programs Houston TX

Q: What is down payment assistance?

Down payment assistance (DPA) programs provide grants, forgivable loans, or low-interest loans to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. In Houston, these programs can provide up to $40,000 in assistance.

Ayuda para el enganche — la mayoría de los compradores en Houston no saben que esto existe.

Up to $40,000 in assistance available

Check My Eligibility 832-894-7676

What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down payment assistance (DPA) programs provide money to help you cover your down payment and closing costs when buying a home.

In Houston, there are over 10 DPA programs available that can provide anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 in assistance. Most Houston buyers qualify for at least one program — but they don't know it.

Daisy specializes in finding every dollar of assistance you qualify for.

$40K+

Max Assistance

10+

Programs Available

100s

Families Helped

Interest on Many

Types of Down Payment Assistance

Grants

Do not need to be repaid.

Forgivable Loans

Forgiven after a certain period of time (ex: 3, 5, or 10 years).

Deferred Loans

No payments required — repaid when you sell or refinance.

Common DPA Myths Debunked

Don't let misinformation hold you back

MYTH:

Down payment assistance is only for low-income buyers

TRUTH:

Many programs serve middle-income families. Income limits can be as high as $128,000+ for a family of 4 depending on the program.

MYTH:

The application process takes forever

TRUTH:

With an experienced loan officer like Daisy, DPA can be added to your loan with minimal additional time — often just a few extra days.

MYTH:

You have to pay back all the assistance if you sell

TRUTH:

Many programs are forgiven over time (3-10 years). If you sell after the forgiveness period, you owe nothing back.

MYTH:

DPA is only for first-time buyers

TRUTH:

While many programs target first-time buyers, some (like SETH) are available to repeat buyers, and veterans often qualify regardless of previous homeownership.

Want to Know How Much You May Qualify For?

Daisy will review your situation and find all the assistance programs you may qualify for.

See If You Qualify

DPA FAQs

Answers to the most common questions about down payment assistance

Ready to See If You Qualify for Assistance?

Thousands of dollars in help could be waiting for you. Let Daisy review your eligibility.

Check My DPA Eligibility 832-894-7676

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